by J. A. Kerr
Guy knocked and entered his office. “It can be done. Wasn’t easy either, my contact said whoever did it was good. No trace left behind,” said Guy. “He checked on the dates we gave him and could find nothing to suggest the files had been tampered with. The only error he could see was failing to update the system. He was surprised; it was a silly mistake, but admitted it’s often the easy things hackers overlook. They spend so much time getting past the firewalls, understanding the complexity it involves, it’s easy to forget an administrative detail. It happens.”
Benedict’s mind buzzed with the information. Waters had money. The divorce settlement had been generous. He was smarter than Benedict had given him credit for. He immediately thought of the club’s own IT security. The Braille Club was shrouded in secrecy. Exposure of its existence or its members would be disastrous.
“Our systems at the club...can they be breached?” asked Benedict, rubbing his temples. “Can we be compromised?”
“No, our systems are secure.” Guy’s voice was firm. “We have some of the most sophisticated software available.”
Benedict’s face was serious. “So your contact couldn’t get in?”
“Different complexity. To date he has failed.”
“So he’s tried?”
“Don’t worry, Benedict. He works for us. That’s his job. He will never stop looking for a back door into our system. I take cyber security very seriously.”
“What if Nick Waters set the whole abduction thing up? I’ve been thinking,” he said, hearing the agitation in his voice. He wasn’t sleeping, his mind wouldn’t let him. It worked overtime trying to find a way to get to Waters. He was numb. He knew that. The shock of the abduction still fresh as his brain churned over the possibilities. He shook his head trying to clear the fog of fatigue that was slowing his thoughts. “He drugged Siena when she was pregnant to abduct her. This fits his MO.”
Guy was silent. “You think he drugged Lizzie and then the twins?”
Benedict’s mouth set in a grimace. “Yes.” His rage ballooned for a moment and he had to grip the desk. “I think that’s exactly what he did.” Benedict’s chest rose and fell as he took a rapid breath. Waters had tried to kill his children, he realised he was shaking.
“You okay?” said Guy.
“What the fuck do you think?” he snapped and immediately regretted it. He put his hand up. “Sorry, Guy, I didn’t mean...”
Guy’s shoulders slumped. “It’s okay, I can’t imagine what this is like for you both.”
“My children are only alive because of your quick thinking with the GPS. It seems, yet again, I’m in your debt.”
Guy shook his head. “Benedict, it was you who found them. A father’s instinct is what saved them.”
Benedict smiled sadly. “Thank God, I don’t know what I would have done...” he broke off and turned away. His eyes filled with tears and a sob escaped from deep inside him. He was exhausted both physically and emotionally. Tears rolled down his face. His shoulders shuddered as he cried. The pent up emotion once released was like a tidal wave. He felt Guy’s hand on his back and a glass in his hand.
“Drink this.” Guy squeezed his shoulder.
Benedict wiped his face, neither embarrassed nor comforted. He could never have peace until he stopped Nick Waters. He sipped the whiskey, glad of the burn in his throat. They say men don’t cry...but they do and Benedict was not ashamed. “You know when Siena’s car was stolen it bothered me.”
Guy looked relieved to be on safer territory. “Why?”
“Well, her car keys could have been anywhere. She could have had them with her for example when she left the house, except she always leaves them in the drawer in the hall table. Nick Waters would know that.”
“Lucky guess?” said Guy.
“I don’t think so. I think it was someone who knew Siena’s habits.”
“Circumstantial, I’m afraid,” said Guy. “Also, Lizzie said there were two people.”
“I’ve been thinking about that,” said Benedict, calmer now. “Nick Waters needs to be working with an accomplice. He was released on the day the twins were abducted, so who organised the drugs and the hire car?”
“It would point to Katie Burns, but I’m not sure I believe that. Someone was definitely helping him,” said Guy. “We need to find out who that was.”
“I agree,” said Benedict. “Katie Burns is the obvious choice. She distracted Lizzie with the cat story while Nick Waters got inside the house. The jacket I saw in Siena’s car was the jacket in the CCTV footage. I’m sure of it.”
“Forensics will examine the jacket. If there is DNA, they’ll find it. If it belongs to Katie Burns, it will tie her to the burial site,” said Guy.
Benedict frowned. “I’m not buying this. Why would Katie Burns get involved?”
“Maybe she’s in love with Waters, who knows, but the jacket is a woman’s. Lizzie described a woman speaking into the intercom. Nick Waters was arrested in Katie Burn’s home. She’s involved,” said Guy tersely.
“I still think Nick Waters was working with someone apart from Katie.” Benedict’s expression was pensive.
“I can look at recent prisoner releases. There might be an ex-con with a connection to Waters.”
“Yes,” said Benedict. “That makes sense. Someone he’s spent time with in prison, but out now and willing to work for him.”
“Leave it with me,” said Guy getting up. He hurried out of the office.
Benedict didn’t want to wait but had no alternative. He didn’t have the contacts that Guy had. Everything took time and Benedict was frustrated with progress...or the lack of it.
Nick Waters was a dangerous man. He had money. He was smart and currently at large. The only thing keeping Benedict sane was Evan Radley. Guy had been fantastic and continued to help with the investigation but Benedict would never put him at risk. It was enough he’d compromised him with his hacker request. Guy hadn’t been happy and Benedict was conscious of not involving him further. He had his reputation to uphold but Benedict on the other hand had his family to protect. He would be the prime suspect if Waters disappeared, but that was a risk he was willing to take, to keep them safe. Up until now, it was something he had failed to do.
His phone rang, interrupting his thoughts. He answered and as he listened, his mood lightened.
“I’ll come get him now,” he said.
Their roles had reversed and Matt had become a tower of strength to Benedict. Working full time now, he was managing Benedict’s architectural business with aplomb and the clients loved him. Benedict was still the main lead on important projects. But there was no getting away from it, clients preferred dealing with Matt. His easy manner and smile, a stark contrast to Benedict’s short fuse and preoccupied air. It was a no brainer. Benedict happily took a back seat and let Matt takeover. That allowed him to remain within Harrison’s and near to his family.
“Ben,” said Matt. His face fuller now and wreathed in smiles. “Thanks for doing this,” he said a little sheepishly. “I know it’s the last thing on your mind at the moment.”
“Nonsense,” said Benedict. Just being around Matt made him feel better, more like his old self, he was the tonic Benedict badly needed.
“I’m not really sure what to expect.” Matt seemed nervous. “Niven wasn’t very forthcoming.”
Benedict nodded his head. “Good girl.” He stood. “Let’s go to my office and I can fill you in. You don’t need to make a decision today. Think it over before you decide.”
They entered Benedict’s office and Matt sat opposite Benedict.
“Okay,” said Matt. “How are Siena and the twins? Are they around?”
“She’s tired and anxious. Living upstairs is hardly ideal but I’m not sure what else we can do under the circumstances.”
“Any further update from the police?”
Benedict felt his mood darken. “Katie Burns is still helping them with their enquires and Nick Waters has been release
d.”
“Fuck!” Matt exclaimed. “You still think he’s behind the abduction?”
“Yes, but he’s clever. Katie Burns has corroborated his alibi. The police can’t hold him but they’re questioning her about the jacket found in Siena’s car. Apparently she’s admitted it’s hers but has no idea how it got there.”
Matt paused. “O-okay.” He frowned. “Someone’s lying.”
“And we both know who but I keep being told it’s early days. The police are still investigating. I only know this much because of Guy.”
“What about yesterday’s story in the newspaper saying Katie Burns had been stalking Siena?”
“Rubbish.” Benedict gave a dismissive wave of his hand. “I think Siena would have known if she was being watched. It’s just a sensationalised article designed to sell newspapers.”
Matt bit his nail. “Try not to worry too much. I know that’s hard but I suppose the police need time to investigate and build their case.” His voice was reassuring.
“It’s not just me. Siena is utterly convinced it was Nick and, yes, she and the twins are upstairs. Are you sure your nerves are up to it?”
Matt’s grin got wider. “Course. I am their favourite uncle. Plus, Niven is meeting me here later. I know she’d love to see the kids too.”
“Well, you’ve got no chance once the kids see Niven. They love her.”
Matt grinned. “Yeah, she has that effect on me too.”
“I’m glad you’ve both seen sense.”
“Yeah.” Matt hung his head. “I’ve been such an idiot, Ben.”
“That’s in the past, Matt. Look to the future.”
“I know. Hopefully your Braille Club can help me.” Matt blinked and looked away “What does it involve exactly?” His face reddened.
Benedict tapped his nose. “Everything I’m about to tell you is confidential.”
“I understand.” Matt sat up straight and clasped his hands.
“Good. Let me explain about the Braille Club from the beginning,” said Benedict.
Chapter 10
The Braille Club Reborn
Niven
Niven waited nervously for Matt. The lounge at Harrison’s was busy, but she’d booked a table. She wondered how his meeting with Benedict had gone. What would he think? Butterflies danced around her tummy. Her nerves were strung so tight she could hardly sit still. She remembered her conversation with Benedict and her own interview with Guy Walker. Fear and apprehension had overwhelmed her. Touch had been her enemy until her sensory session changed her forever. Niven had tried and failed to move on from Matt. She had men falling at her feet. Niven was aware she was beautiful but the one man she desired didn’t want her. Although Matt and Niven were dating each other again, he still hadn’t touched her. Niven craved his touch more than anything. She hoped the Braille Club would heal them.
Her heart leapt when she saw Matt enter the room. His face was flushed as he approached her. He leant over and kissed her on the mouth. Niven lost herself in his soft lips, his warmth and closeness. She was breathless when he sat down.
“Niven,” Matt murmured, his eyes were intense. “I’m not sure...” his gaze swept the room.
“It’s okay, Matt,” said Niven, her disappointment acute. “It’s not for everyone.”
His face broke into a smile. “No, I mean, I’m not sure I can talk about the Braille Club,” he murmured. “My God, Niven, the place is incredible.” He rubbed his palms together, then reached out and took her hands in his. “Thank you for suggesting this.” His eyes were full of emotion. He brought his lips to her hands and kissed them, sending tingles down her spine. “I’ve said yes. Guy will get in touch and organise things. I felt terrible bothering Benedict after what he’s been through. He’s been so worked up since the twins went missing.” His mouth set in a hard line.
Niven frowned. “I know what you mean,” she said. “Poor Siena and Benedict, they must have been distraught. I was so shocked. Do you think this girl...this nutter did it? She sounds crazy enough,” said Niven. There was no missing the venom in her tone.
“Ben says the media just wanted to sell newspapers. There is some truth behind the article but he’s not convinced she’s the person responsible. I asked Benedict myself. Some of the evidence is pointing at Katie Burns but I’m with Benedict on this. Something doesn’t feel right.”
“I haven’t seen Siena since it happened.” Niven’s voice was strained. “We keep missing each other.”
“She’s amazing,” said Matt. “They both are. In fact we can go see them now if you want. Benedict told me to pop up anytime in the next hour.”
Niven hesitated. “Yes, I’d like that.” It was true, she’d love to see Siena but that meant forfeiting a cosy dinner with Matt. She sighed. “I’ve been thinking. We’ve all been through so much, almost like we’re connected: first Siena, then you and me, and now the twins.”
Matt froze. “Yes, I’ve never thought about it like that.” His face was deeply troubled. “I thought Siena and I were in the wrong place at the wrong time. Toby was following you,” said Matt, “we just got caught in the middle.”
“I know, but the police never traced the cash payments Toby received. It’s always bothered me. Where did Toby get his money?” said Niven. “He was broke when he got released. Someone was funding him, Matt. I’m sure of it.”
Matt shrugged. “Do you think it’s important?”
“Yes. They found no money at his flat either. Toby must have put it somewhere. The police told me, he paid the rent for the studio in cash.” Niven shuddered. She didn’t like to think about the studio—ever. “The police found a safety deposit key but were unable to identify where it came from. I bet he put his cash there.”
“Maybe,” agreed Matt, “but what difference does that make?”
“He might have put other things in there, too.”
“Like what?” asked Matt, puzzled.
“I don’t know,” admitted Niven. “I got the feeling Toby was desperate to do something, and I stopped him.”
“Niven.” Matt touched her arm. “He was evil and we both know what he was desperate to do.”
Niven flinched. Yes, Matt was right of course but Niven was there, in those last moments she was sure Toby was trying to tell her something...
“Niven?” Matt squeezed her hand.
The ghost of Toby Fraser sat between them both until Niven banished him. He’d lost, and she’d won. She squeezed back.
“Do you want to visit the Harrisons’?” asked Matt, a slow smile appearing on his serious face.
“I thought you’d never ask,” said Niven.
Matt slung an arm around her waist and pulled her close. “Let’s go?” he whispered softly into her neck.
Niven’s body tightened in response. The feel of Matt against her, holding her tight, made her heart pound. The butterflies returned worse than ever. She had been hoping for more than an impromptu visit to see Benedict and Siena but didn’t mention the room she’d booked upstairs. Niven’s virginity had never bothered her until now. She desperately wished she was more experienced. She wanted to impress Matt but feared her naivety would have the opposite effect.
She plastered on a bright smile. “Lovely.”
She had thought perhaps she and Matt could spend the night together and that one thing would lead to another. His excitement about the Braille Club was there, but his concern for his friends took precedence. And so it should. Niven felt ashamed. The afternoon had not gone as she thought but she could wait, she decided. She had waited this long...what was a few more weeks.
Chapter 11
The Braille Club Reborn
Guy
Anna was on Guy’s mind. Somehow, she always knew how to draw him back and refocus his mind. It was what they both needed, and the sex, as always, reconnected them. The toys she had brought home that day were an unexpected thrill and, boy, they’d given them a serious workout. Anna was in control in their bedroom and the things th
ey had done still made Guy blush. He was getting hard now thinking about it. She pushed his limits in ways he’d never thought possible. Her little bag of tricks had him positively salivating. Some of the most intense sensations he’d ever had during sex were with Anna. She flicked a switch and released a side of him he couldn’t control, and she knew it. She wanted to experiment, heightening every feeling and bringing their lovemaking to a whole new level. Bending her over the kitchen table had brought back memories of their earlier days together.
Working together and having dirty, spontaneous sex in each other’s offices had been a dangerous game. They were both addicted to the thrill of it, but thankfully, had never been caught. He realised he’d missed it and wondered if Anna did too. In the beginning he wanted Anna all the time. His need for her so intense he couldn’t concentrate on work. He smiled wryly. His work—the root cause of all their current problems. If he could just get a break on Benedict’s case, something to point the finger away from Katie Burns and towards Nick Waters, then he was determined to scale things back. Employing Sasha had halved his workload overnight but Guy was spending hours trying to dig up evidence.
Benedict had told Evan to check out the club. Guy was impatient to get started but Evan wanted to understand what he was getting himself into. Guy hoped he was still interested in helping them. The private zone he used with Anna needed his attention too. Benedict knew he had a workshop where he designed and trialled new equipment, but Guy kept all their Braille toys locked away. Benedict had no interest in Guy’s sex life but he didn’t want him asking questions either. Anna’s Braille chair as he thought of it would never be used in the club. Yes, he wanted members to be stimulated but penetration was not an option. That little modification was purely for her. Working in development had its advantages. Re-energised, his mind was awash with new and exciting zone improvements. As he stepped inside their private zone, he felt the usual rush of pleasure. There was nowhere like it on earth. His zone work with Anna continued to keep things interesting, and he enjoyed his role as dominate. Guy was a quick learner. The private Kinbaku lessons were going well. He had ordered new equipment and fixed it to the ceiling himself. The sling was ready and waiting. The ropes and pulleys in place. It was time to try them out.
